Overview
What is Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent?
The Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center, based in Weslaco, Texas, is a nonprofit organization with a focus on environmental education. The center offers programs and classes year-round, teaching people about the diverse flora and fauna of the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. The center operates an interpretive nature trail through a six-acre park, open to the public six days a week. It aims to educate both adults and children about nature, and actively participates in activities that are environmentally beneficial. The Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center maintains a monthly newsletter and a informative website, providing up-to-date information about nature, and periodically offers special learning opportunities at the center. With a dedicated workforce of 12 employees, the center is committed to fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for the natural world in the community.
Official website here: www.valleynaturecenter.org
What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?
Charity Navigator Rating: Needs Improvement (Two-Star out of Four Star rating, 72%)
The Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center holds a two-star rating from Charity Navigator, indicating a need for improvement in various organizational areas. While their accountability and finance score is relatively strong at 72%, there are significant gaps in policy documentation, such as missing whistleblower and document retention policies. Furthermore, the absence of their tax form on the website raises concerns about transparency.
On a positive note, the organization benefits from a fully independent board and has demonstrated effective program expense management, with 100% of expenses directed towards programs. User feedback highlights the nature center's educational initiatives, particularly its effective programs for teaching visitors about local wildlife and plants. One volunteer's experience emphasizes the center's commitment to fostering a love for nature and environmental stewardship among participants, indicating strong community engagement.
However, despite the positive reviews and the educational impact noted by volunteers, the organization must address its weaknesses in governance and transparency to enhance its overall rating and public trust. Improving documentation practices and providing more accessible financial information could significantly strengthen the Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center's standing in the nonprofit sector.
This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator and Great Nonprofits.
Is Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent legitimate?
Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.
Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:
Executive Compensation: $0
Professional Fundraising Fees: $0
Other Salaries and Wages: $176,794
For more financial information, click here
Official website here: www.valleynaturecenter.org
What is the mission statement of Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent?
The Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center is dedicated to educating both adults and children about nature through various programs and activities. It operates an interpretive nature trail open to the public six days a week, promoting environmentally beneficial practices. The center's mission extends beyond education, as it also participates in activities that contribute to the preservation of the local ecosystem. Year-round, it offers classes and workshops about the flora and fauna of the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. Furthermore, it maintains a monthly newsletter, an informative website, and provides occasional special learning opportunities at the center.
Official website here: www.valleynaturecenter.org
What is the revenue of Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent?
Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent's revenue in 2023 was $278,916.
Official website here: www.valleynaturecenter.org
Who are the executives of Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent and what are their salaries?
The average compensation at Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent during 2023 was $12,628. There are 14 employees at Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent.
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Official website here: www.valleynaturecenter.org
Where can I find the form 990 for Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent?
Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2023 and can be accessed here.
Official website here: www.valleynaturecenter.org
Learn more at the official website: www.valleynaturecenter.org
Mission Statement of Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent
The Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center, a six-acre park open to the public six days a week, serves as an interpretive nature trail dedicated to educating adults and children about the wonders of nature. Its mission is multi-faceted, involving not only instruction but also participation in activities that benefit the environment. The center conducts programs year-round, providing a wealth of knowledge about the flora and fauna of the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas.
In addition to its educational programs, the Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center maintains a monthly newsletter and an informative website. Periodic special learning opportunities are also offered at the center. The center's commitment to environmental awareness and education extends beyond its physical boundaries, as it strives to make a positive impact on the environment and inspire a love for nature in its visitors.
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Impact
June, 2024
The Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center's impact is seen through its interpretive nature trail that spans a six-acre park in Weslaco, TX. This center conducts programs and classes year-round to educate individuals, both adults and children, about the diverse flora and fauna of the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. By maintaining a monthly newsletter, an informative website, and offering special learning opportunities, the center actively engages the community in environmental education and awareness. Through its efforts, the Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Center contributes to promoting environmental stewardship and conservation in the region.
This information is meant to be a general summary of Lower Rio Grande Valley Nature Cent. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.
Financials
This financial information is from Propublica.
Other financial information:
This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2023.
- Program Service Revenue: $71,006
- Gross Receipts: $294,145
Assets and Liabilities:
- Total Assets: $199,564
- Total Liabilities: $100,900
- Net Assets: $98,664
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Programs
Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.
NATURE PROGRAMS
Revenue
$71,006
Organization Details
Founding Year
1984
Principal Officer
Enriqueta Caballero
Website
www.valleynaturecenter.orgNTEE Category
Code: C600 - Environment
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